Schedule 1 stunning followed by decapitation

Please read the general principles of blood sampling page before attempting any blood sampling procedure.

Technique

The primary reason for carrying out this technique is to obtain a large volume of blood that has not been affected by anaesthetic drugs or carbon dioxide. A large volume of blood can be collected from the trunk if necessary.

Suitable for all strains, this technique should only be used in rare circumstances and where there is exceptional scientific justification. Concussion of the brain is acheived by striking the cranium. The mouse must be determined as dead before decapitation (see Section 1(4) of the amended ASPA).

Concussion of the brain is a Schedule 1 method of euthanasia and should only be carried out by people competent in this method for the species and size of the animal. Training for stunning and decapitation should be undertaken on dead animals.